What company would not want to be named to the Best Workplaces for Commuters list? There are so many benefits to this program, which emphasizes innovative and sustainable commute alternatives that reduce air pollution, traffic congestion, and fuel usage.

“Studies show [that] employers that offer commuter benefits improve employee recruiting and retention, increase employee job satisfaction, and save money on parking and federal taxes,” according to the National Center for Transit Research (NCTR) at the University of South Florida. The NCTR has been managing the Best Workplaces program since 2007, five years after it was launched jointly by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation.

“Best Workplaces for Commuters demonstrates that options to drive-alone commuting, such as transit, carpools, and teleworking are economically beneficial, yielding value to workers, employers, and our environment,” the NCTR points out. “The program builds on the efforts of many top employers to help get employees to work safely, on time, and free of commute-related stress.”

From the sustainability perspective alone, if half of all employees worked at companies that have earned this elite designation, “15 million cars would be removed from the road daily,” the group notes.

The good news is that all Hacienda employers are eligible to be included on the list, simply by virtue of their location in the park. Guided by the conviction that transportation alternatives are essential to meeting the needs of today’s workforce, Hacienda has crafted one of the most comprehensive commute service programs available. The wide range of free and convenient offerings include access to local and inter-regional transit and shuttles, incentives for new riders trying commute alternatives, preferential parking for rideshare and rideshare assistance, an emergency ride home, a library of commuting resources, pedestrian and biking facilities, and centralized commute information services. These provisions enable Hacienda to meet all requirements of the “Bay Area Best Workplaces for Commuters” title, so park occupants automatically qualify for the designation.

Giving employees access to programs that provide commuting benefits is a great way to demonstrate leadership in an area that is becoming increasingly important in the workplace. Employers who participate in the Best Workplaces for Commuters program distinguish themselves as having met an established national standard of excellence. They are highlighted as progressive business people in an extensive annual media campaign which recognizes them for having made special provisions for their employees, helping to improve their quality of life, and for being savvy with their investment in employee benefits programs.

Taking advantage of this opportunity for recognition is a very simple process for Hacienda businesses. Just go to www.hacienda.org/resources/resources_transportation_bwfc.html and complete the online registration form. If your firm provides any additional commuter benefits, there is a place to include them as well. You can also enroll by calling the Hacienda Owners Association at (925) 734-6500.